Methods for Spacecraft Avionics Protection Against Space Radiation in the Form of Single-Event Transients

Abstract

This paper presents a design philosophy for protecting spacecraft avionics from the effects of single-event transients caused by high-energetic charged particles in the space environment. The design philosophy has resulted in a proven concept over the many years of actual implementation in real avionics in real space missions. Only an overview of this design philosophy is presented. The paper first addresses the science of the space environment as it relates to high-energy charged particles. It includes the derivations of important parameters in high-energy particle physics as it applies to interactions with semiconductor electronic in component integrated circuits. The paper then transitions to explore some general methodologies widely used in the industry to control the damaging effects of single-event transients caused by the space environment. The paper then shifts emphasis to the main subject of design methods and philosophies, with examples of how spacecraft avionics can be designed and built with a certain level of immunity against the possible catastrophic effects of single-event transients. These design principles are presented briefly, but with enough detail to provide a general overview.